Tributes paid to Warrington band Viola Beach and manager following car crash in Sweden

Press Association Ltd

Friends and fans across the world have paid tribute to the band Viola Beach, after a car crash in Sweden that killed all four members and their manager.

Matthew Kershaw was a close friend of Craig Tarry, the band's manager who was in the car when it plunged off a bridge into a canal.

The 43-year-old, who lives in Los Angeles but is originally from Bath, met Mr Tarry in 2011.

They were both devoted Manchester City football fans and members of the Hollywood branch of the Manchester City Supporters Club, which Mr Kershaw set up.

He said: "Craig was an absolutely wonderful lad. Very gregarious and outgoing, he really was living life to its fullest, chasing his dreams.

"He was much loved by all of us, and all those that ever came in contact with him, and we are devastated for his family, and for his friends, who are truly all around the world."

In a tribute on Facebook he continued: "One of the very first people I met, and one of the first handful of members was Craig Tarry, a Mancunian living and working in LA, a season ticket holder who was passionate about life and this team.

"He stood up for us ... he helped members get tickets to games in Manchester, and became a close friend to many of us.

"Thanks Craig, for everything. We will miss you."

Mr Kershaw confirmed the Hollywood supporters would be congregating in a bar in LA to watch the Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur match, due to kick off in Manchester on Sunday afternoon.

"We have over 300 supporters now who attend at various times and part of our branch. We will be applauding in the fifth minute."

The principal of Priestley College in Warrington, where three of the band members were educated, said it was a very sad day for the college and for the town.

Jack Dakin and Kris Leonard attended the college between 2012 and 2014, and River Reeves between 2013 and 2015.

Mr Dakin studied a B-tech in sport, Mr Leonard studied film and media, and music performance, and Mr Reeves did an extended diploma in musical theatre and A Level drama.

Matthew Grant said: "We were all very sad to hear the news and our thoughts are with them and their families.

"It is a great loss for Warrington. They had really bright futures ahead of them.

"It is a very sad day for Priestley and for Warrington."

The college had received lots of messages from past students and staff responding to the news, Mr Grant added.